Semester A

Course Description

This course is a survey of the major themes of physical science including atomic theory, dynamics, energetics, thermodynamics, electricity, quantum mechanics, and particle physics. Interactive demonstrations and virtual labs allow the student to visualize and explore the laws and theories of physics. Scientific history, methods of exploration, and philosophy are also presented. Before Newton, the world was magic and the stars were incomprehensible. Newtonian physics made the universe predictable, like the workings of a clock. However, as Maxwell, Einstein, and their colleagues looked afresh at the universe, it became magical again, full of unexpected twists and counterintuitive turns. Physics has become an exercise of the mind more than of the lab. Unless one knows the history and logic behind modern physics, the universe may again become incomprehensible. Knowing modern physics, students can better understand the reality and magic of the universe. In Physics A, the student will work through and complete several self-check activities and quizzes for practice, and participate in self-reflection. In each unit students complete the unit exam and deliver a unit project. Teacher feedback is provided throughout the course.

Major Concepts

Semester B

Course Description

Physics B starts from classical physics and journeys to particle physics and modern electronics. Topics include the nature of light, wave motion, sound flow, optics, and electromagnetic fields. Students are introduced to Maxwell's field theory, which laid the foundation for Einstein and Planck to explore relativity and quantum mechanics. Physics B builds upon the theoretical issues covered in Physics A. Concentrating on waves, optics, and the electromagnetic spectrum, this course shows how the controversy about wave motion, particles, and light led to a new understanding of matter and energy. Such understanding, in turn, led to a new look at the universe of the very large and the very small. Relativity, wave-particle duality, and the Standard Model all owe their existence to the initial confusion of physicists over the nature of light. Students work through and complete several self-check activities and quizzes for practice, and participate in self-reflection. In each unit students complete the unit exam and deliver a unit project. Teacher feedback is provided throughout the course.

Major Concepts

Requirements

Grade Level
11

Materials
None

Duration
2 Semesters

Prerequisites

Technology Skills